Navigating through inclement weather conditions can be a formidable challenge, especially when visibility is compromised. One crucial aspect of maintaining a clear field of vision while driving in such conditions is ensuring that your vehicle’s rear windshield remains free of water, dirt, and debris. This is where the rear wiper comes into play. Rear wipers play a vital role in enhancing rearward visibility, allowing drivers to navigate safely and confidently even in the face of adverse weather. Whether you’re dealing with torrential rain, sleet, or snow, having a functioning rear wiper is essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of turning on the rear wiper, providing step-by-step instructions and addressing common troubleshooting scenarios. By the end of this article, you will have a thorough understanding of how to operate your rear wiper effectively, enabling you to drive with peace of mind in any weather condition.
Before delving into the specific steps involved in activating the rear wiper, it is imperative to locate the corresponding control switch within your vehicle. Typically, this switch is situated on the right-hand side of the steering column, conveniently positioned within reach of the driver. Once you have identified the rear wiper control switch, you can proceed with the following steps to turn it on:
1. Locate the rear wiper control switch on the right-hand side of the steering column.
2. Push the switch upward to the “ON” position.
3. Adjust the wiper speed by rotating the switch clockwise (for faster) or counterclockwise (for slower).
4. Turn the switch back to the “OFF” position when you no longer need the rear wiper.
Identifying the Rear Wiper Switch
The rear wiper switch in most vehicles is usually located on the right-hand side of the steering column, either on the turn signal lever or near the gear selector. However, the exact placement can vary depending on the make and model of your car.
To identify the rear wiper switch, look for a symbol or label that indicates rear wiper functionality. The symbol may resemble a stylized depiction of a wiper blade or a rain drop with an arrow pointing downward. Some vehicles may also have additional markings or labels, such as “R” for rear or “Rear Wipe.”
In some cases, the rear wiper switch may be combined with the front wiper switch. In such instances, the switch will usually have multiple positions to control both the front and rear wipers independently. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on locating and operating the rear wiper switch.
| Vehicle | Rear Wiper Switch Location |
|---|---|
| Honda Civic (2016-present) | Right-hand side of steering column, near the turn signal lever |
| Toyota Camry (2018-present) | Right-hand side of steering column, on the gear selector |
| Ford F-150 (2021-present) | Left-hand side of steering column, near the headlight controls |
Locating the Rear Wiper Control Arm
The rear wiper control arm is usually situated on the right-hand side of the steering column, near the headlight switch or turn signal lever. It is typically marked with an icon of a vehicle with a rear window and a wiper blade, or simply with the words “Rear Wiper.” To identify the correct lever, look for the one that has a small switch or button on its end.
Once you have located the rear wiper control arm, you can proceed to activate the wiper.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the rear wiper control arm may have different positions for different wiper speeds and functions.
| Position | Function |
|---|---|
| Off | Turns off the rear wiper. |
| Intermittent | Activates the rear wiper to wipe at a regular interval, usually every few seconds. |
| Low | Turns on the rear wiper at a slow speed. |
| High | Turns on the rear wiper at a fast speed. |
| Mist | (On some vehicles) Activates the rear wiper to spray a fine mist of water onto the rear window. |
Some vehicles may also have a “Rear Wash” button on the control arm, which activates the rear window washer to spray water onto the rear glass before the wiper wipes.
Adjusting the Rear Wiper Speed
Typically, the rear wiper speed is controlled by a rotating knob or lever located near the gear shift or on the dashboard. The knob or lever has multiple positions that correspond to different speeds:
- Off: Turns off the rear wiper.
- Intermittent: The wiper operates at a slow, intermittent rate, making one or two sweeps at a time.
- Low: The wiper operates at a steady, low speed.
- Medium: The wiper operates at a steady, medium speed.
- High: The wiper operates at its fastest speed.
The optimal rear wiper speed depends on the intensity of the precipitation. For light rain or mist, the intermittent or low speed setting may be sufficient. For heavier rain, snow, or sleet, the medium or high speed setting may be necessary. When visibility is poor due to heavy precipitation, it is crucial to keep the rear wiper running at an adequate speed to ensure a clear view behind the vehicle.
| Setting | Speed | Best Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Off | N/A | No precipitation or low visibility |
| Intermittent | Slow, intermittent rate | Light rain or mist |
| Low | Steady, low speed | Moderate rain |
| Medium | Steady, medium speed | Heavy rain or snow |
| High | Fastest speed | Intense rain, snow, or sleet |
Turn on the Rear Wiper
1. Locate the rear wiper switch on the dashboard. It’s usually near the dashboard’s center or left side.
2. Push the switch up or down to turn on the rear wiper.
3. Use the intermittent setting for light rain or snow.
4. Use the constant setting for heavy rain or snow.
5. Use the rear washer to clean the rear window.
6. Turn off the rear wiper when not in use.
Tips for Optimal Rear Wiper Performance
1. Replace the wiper blade regularly.
Wiper blades wear out over time, so it’s important to replace them regularly to ensure optimal performance. A worn-out wiper blade will not be able to effectively remove water from the rear window, which can lead to decreased visibility.
2. Clean the rear window regularly.
A dirty rear window can make it difficult for the wiper blade to effectively remove water. To ensure optimal performance, clean the rear window regularly with a glass cleaner.
3. Use the correct wiper fluid.
Using the correct wiper fluid is important for ensuring optimal performance. Wiper fluid is designed to lubricate the wiper blade and help remove dirt and grime from the rear window. Using the wrong wiper fluid can damage the wiper blade or leave streaks on the rear window.
4. Adjust the wiper speed.
The wiper speed can be adjusted to match the amount of rain or snow. For light rain or snow, the intermittent setting is sufficient. For heavy rain or snow, the constant setting should be used.
5. Use the rear washer.
The rear washer can be used to clean the rear window. The rear washer is activated by pulling the wiper stalk towards you. Using the rear washer can help remove dirt and grime from the rear window, which can improve visibility.
6. Turn off the rear wiper when not in use.
When the rear wiper is not in use, it should be turned off. Leaving the rear wiper on can damage the wiper blade and shorten its lifespan.
7. Inspect the rear wiper system regularly.
The rear wiper system should be inspected regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. The wiper blade, wiper motor, and wiper linkage should all be checked for damage or wear. If any damage or wear is found, the affected component should be replaced.
8. Troubleshooting rear wiper problems
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rear wiper not working | Blown fuse | Replace the fuse |
| Rear wiper streaks | Worn wiper blade | Replace the wiper blade |
| Rear wiper chattering | Dirty rear window | Clean the rear window |
9. Other tips for optimal rear wiper performance
In addition to the tips listed above, here are some other tips for optimal rear wiper performance:
- Use a soft cloth to clean the wiper blade.
- Do not use harsh chemicals to clean the wiper blade.
- Park your car in a shaded area to protect the wiper blade from the sun.
- Replace the wiper blade before it starts to show signs of wear.
How To Turn On Rear Wiper
Turning on the rear wiper is a relatively simple process, but it can vary slightly depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In general, you can turn on the rear wiper by following these steps:
- Locate the rear wiper switch. This is usually found on the dashboard or near the steering wheel.
- Push the switch to the “on” position.
- Adjust the wiper speed as desired.
Some vehicles may have a separate switch for the front and rear wipers. In this case, you will need to select the “rear” setting before turning on the wipers.
People Also Ask About How To Turn On Rear Wiper
How do I turn off the rear wiper?
To turn off the rear wiper, simply push the switch back to the “off” position.
Why is my rear wiper not working?
There are a few reasons why your rear wiper may not be working. The most common cause is a blown fuse. Other possible causes include a faulty switch, a damaged wiper motor, or a problem with the wiring.
How often should I replace my rear wiper blades?
It is generally recommended to replace your rear wiper blades every 6-12 months, or more often if they become worn or damaged.
